Read/Think/Discuss

Essay by Sven Alkalaj (101-105)
Students should have already independently read the essay closely and annotated with sticky notes. Annotations will serve as notes in the socratic circles.
SOCRATIC SEMINAR: Students negotiate meaning via a formal discussion. (7 mins INSIDE/OUTSIDE)
Discussion Starter Ideas:
  • Here's what I got from this passage...
  • When he says.... I think he means....
  • What do you think he means by saying....
  • I'm confused by....
  • What do you think his overall purpose is?
  • I agree/disagree because.....
  • This reminds me of a time....
  • I like it when he says..... That sticks out to me because....

Write

In small groups, students complete the graphic organizer noting the author's PURPOSE and rhetorical appeals.
Share out.

Investigate: Are You Developing Your Own INFORMED Opinion?

In small groups, examine the website created for this freshman comp class's project on The Sunflower.
Read some of the responses and consider their arguments. Notice the way these writers drew on personal experience as well as the text to develop their own opinions. With your group, outline the CLAIMS/REASONS/EVIDENCE for two of the posted essays. You will share these with the class.

You are being asked to add an additional level of evidence- the other sources we have read in class. All of this is designed to help you develop an INFORMED OPINION. You will be asked next time to outline your synthesis essay in class. In this essay, I want you to respond to this question of forgiveness for the Nazi soldier. You will have to incorporate at least 3 sources into your writing. What will your opinion be????

Homework

Read the essay by Joseph Telushkin (262-264). Complete the graphic organizer noting the author's PURPOSE and rhetorical appeals.